Ethical hunting
Ethical hunting is important and we at Baie du Cap Estates Ltd advise that these aspects are understood and practised within our hunting grounds.
Ethical hunting is the knowledge and respect of the game hunted, while following the laws and act in a behaviour in which the Mauritian Society and the World at large expect from the hunting community. To be an ethical hunter one must understand the terrain, habitat and the manner that they are supposed to conduct themselves.
Practising ethical hunting techniques will improve your hunting experience while allowing for a future in your hunting recreational activities.
The 3 key aspects to ethical hunting:
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knowledge and respect of the game species: being well versed in rusa deer, wild pig and rabbit habitat, and treating them fairly and with respect;
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Laws and regulations: this is to ensure the safety of each hunter as well as each should be responsible and behave sustainably;
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right behaviour: a hunter has a direct impact on public opinion as one persons actions can affect the future of hunting on the Island.
Respect ‘fair chase’
Ethical hunting is the concept of ‘fair chase’. This generally means that the hunter provides the game ample time to evade while as ensuring that the animal is treated with respect thus not harassed before, during and after the hunt. Baie du Cap Estates Ltd deems the improper use of vehicles, radio tracking and or any electronic device as inconsistent with the definition of a “fair chase” thus is deemed unethical. A true hunter will always ensure that the chase is fair without using mechanical or technological devices that imbalance the contest.
Concentrate on shot placement
Hunters have the responsibility to ensure minimal suffering to the animal thus it is advised to hit the animal just below the shoulder as where the heart and lungs are situated. Refer to ‘Taking the shot‘ for more details.
Follow up every shot
Every shot take may not be fatal and it is vital for each hunter to follow the wounded animal and dispatch it quickly and in a humane way. (this means tracking down the right animal and not shooting another one while leaving the wounded one alive and in pain)
Make sure you are fit
Physical preparedness is vital as to be able to follow the prey through different terrain under any circumstance. This is vital as to retrieve the kill.
Respect dispatched game
Once a deer is dispatched the hunter must return with the carcass and must be left laying down on any road or trail in and around the estate.It is important to shoot what you want and not waste the life of the animal.
Respect private property and landowner rights
Baie du Cap Estates Limited will provide the permission to hunt on its private property provided that you have a valid hunting license.
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